We always encourage our patients to take good care of their teeth and braces. This is so important – building a great smile is a joint effort between us and you.

Here are some general tips for good care of your teeth and braces:

• Ensure teeth are brushed frequently and properly, particularly when wearing braces. Good oral hygiene means removing bacterial plaque, which can cause inflammation of the gums and loss of supporting bone.
• Brush teeth, gums and braces at least twice a day.
• Use floss or an interdental brush to clean between teeth at least once daily and especially before bed.
• Use a fluoride toothpaste to help reduce the risk of cavities.
• Carry a toothbrush, interdental brushes and/or floss at all times so that you or your child can clean your teeth anytime, anywhere.
• Inform your orthodontist of any unusual symptoms, an accident to the mouth, or broken or loose appliances/brackets as soon as they are noted.
• Keep all orthodontic appointments.
• Advise your orthodontist if there are any changes to your, or your child’s, general medical health.

And on the topic of good oral hygiene, we are so pleased to award the Good Brushing award for the month of September 2023 to Piper, congratulations and well done! We also had a winner for August, that was Mitchell. Good job, Mitchell, keep it up.